
Old Town Altstadt
Passau's Altstadt captivates with its historic charm, where three mighty rivers converge, creating a unique and picturesque Bavarian gem.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Old Town Altstadt
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Passau's Altstadt captivates with its historic charm, where three mighty rivers converge, creating a unique and picturesque Bavarian gem.
"Passau is simply fantastic; we didn't see everything. We'll be back."

🚢 Boat Tour Essential
Experience the three rivers up close with a boat trip for a unique perspective.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The old town's cobblestones and inclines require comfortable shoes for exploring.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Confluence of Three Rivers
Dreiflüssestadt
Witness the breathtaking meeting point of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers, a truly unique natural phenomenon.

St. Stephen's Cathedral
Domplatz
Marvel at the grandeur of this impressive cathedral, a significant landmark in the heart of the old town.

Historic Old Town (Altstadt)
Altstadt
Wander through charming, narrow cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings and cozy cafes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Three Rivers
Navigating the Old Town
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Boat Tour Essential
Experience the three rivers up close with a boat trip for a unique perspective.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The old town's cobblestones and inclines require comfortable shoes for exploring.
☕ Cafe with a View
Enjoy coffee and cake with a view at Café Diwan in the Stadtturm.
🚶♀️ Guided City Walk
A guided tour offers great insights into Passau's history and sights.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Boat Tour Essential
Experience the three rivers up close with a boat trip for a unique perspective.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The old town's cobblestones and inclines require comfortable shoes for exploring.
☕ Cafe with a View
Enjoy coffee and cake with a view at Café Diwan in the Stadtturm.
🚶♀️ Guided City Walk
A guided tour offers great insights into Passau's history and sights.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Passau's Old Town is consistently praised for its charming historic streets, the unique confluence of three rivers, and the impressive St. Stephen's Cathedral. Visitors find it a beautiful and special city, perfect for leisurely exploration and boat trips. Some note that the parking can be basic, but the direct bus connections are convenient.
"Our RV parking lot for a city tour of Passau was the Winterhafen. It was a bare-bones parking lot, but with a direct bus connection. Passau is simply fantastic; we didn't see everything. We'll be back."
Martin Moeller
"What a charming historic town full of small winding streets...
so much history everywhere...
the city of three rivers... that's something special...
We also took a boat trip to experience the Danube, Inn and Ilz close to the water... although the Ilz is of course not navigable...
but a deep feeling of looking at three rivers at once...
It's beautiful here..."
Friederike Hansen
"Beautiful little town very close to the Austrian border 😍 impressive cathedral.. and the three rivers that meet here.. something very special.. will be back 🤗"
Uschi Walcher
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Passau is accessible by train, with the main station offering connections to the city center. Buses are also available, with some routes providing direct access to the old town area.
RV parking is available at Winterhafen with bus connections. For cars, look for designated parking lots on the outskirts of the old town to avoid congestion.
Yes, the charming Austrian town of Schärding is a great option to combine with a Passau visit, offering a delightful breakfast and accommodation experience.
For a day trip, focus on the historic Altstadt, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and a short boat tour to see the confluence of the three rivers.
Passau is well-connected by public transport and is a popular destination for international students and tourists.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Old Town (Altstadt) itself is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. However, specific attractions within the old town may have admission fees.
St. Stephen's Cathedral is generally open daily, but it's advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date visiting hours, especially for specific services or events.
While specific city passes might not be widely advertised, consider booking a combined city tour and Danube cruise for a comprehensive experience.
There is a fee to access the upper floors of the Stadtturm, where Café Diwan is located, offering panoramic views.
Exploring the charming streets, admiring the architecture, and visiting the confluence of the rivers are all free activities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key sights include the confluence of the three rivers, St. Stephen's Cathedral, the historic streets, and enjoying the atmosphere from a riverside cafe.
Popular activities include boat tours on the Danube, exploring the Altstadt, visiting museums, and enjoying local cuisine. You can also try ceramic painting.
Absolutely! The unique river confluence, historic architecture, and charming streets offer numerous picturesque opportunities.
Passau is known as the 'City of Three Rivers' because the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers meet here, creating a unique landscape and historical significance.
Passau has experienced significant floods, notably in 2013. While the city has recovered beautifully, understanding its history adds depth to a visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Look for traditional Bavarian cuisine in local restaurants and enjoy the lively atmosphere of riverside cafes. The weekly market offers fresh produce and local treats.
Café Diwan in the Stadtturm offers breakfast with a view, and other local cafes provide a pleasant start to your day.
While specific Passau specialties aren't highlighted, expect hearty Bavarian dishes and local beers. Enjoying fresh produce from the weekly market is also recommended.
Many restaurants in Germany are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's best to check menus or ask staff for recommendations.
Dining by the rivers offers scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a meal or a drink.
📸 📸 Photography
The confluence of the three rivers, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and the charming narrow streets of the Altstadt are prime photography locations.
Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers beautiful light for capturing the city's architecture and river views.
The Stadtturm offers a fantastic vantage point for panoramic photos of the city and the river landscape.
A versatile lens for landscapes and street photography, along with a wide-angle lens for capturing the river confluence, would be beneficial.
Photography rules inside cathedrals can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask permission before taking photos inside St. Stephen's Cathedral.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Three Rivers
Beyond the confluence itself, the rivers shape the city's landscape, with promenades and viewing points offering stunning vistas. The Danube, in particular, is a major European waterway, and Passau serves as a key port. Understanding the role of these rivers enriches the visitor's appreciation of Passau's heritage and its enduring connection to nature.
Exploring Passau's Historic Altstadt
Key landmarks within the Altstadt include the magnificent St. Stephen's Cathedral, with its impressive Baroque architecture and the world's largest cathedral organ. Take time to wander through the main squares, browse the local shops, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. The Domplatz is a central hub, often bustling with activity and offering a great starting point for your explorations. Don't miss the opportunity to climb the Stadtturm for panoramic views over the red rooftops and the converging rivers.
Passau's Resilience and History
Beyond flood history, Passau has been a significant center for centuries, influenced by its strategic location at the confluence of three rivers. It was an important trading post and a bishopric. Exploring the city's museums and historical sites can offer further insights into its past, from Roman times to its role in European trade and politics.


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